Relating to information regarding job matching services provided by the Texas Workforce Commission; providing a criminal penalty.
Impact
The bill introduces stricter rules on the use and disclosure of job matching services information. It mandates the TWC to adopt reasonable rules governing confidentiality, which must include certain safeguards. Failure to comply with these regulations could result in criminal penalties for persons who improperly solicit, disclose, or misuse such information. By enhancing privacy protections, the bill aims to encourage more individuals to utilize job matching services without fear of their information being disclosed publicly.
Summary
House Bill 3151 aims to amend the Labor Code of Texas, specifically focusing on the confidentiality and management of job matching services information provided by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). The bill redefines what constitutes job matching services information and unemployment compensation information, emphasizing that such records are not public information. It is designed to bolster privacy protections for individuals and employers while ensuring that TWC maintains control over sensitive data related to employment and unemployment services.
Contention
A notable point of contention surrounding HB 3151 is the balance between transparency and confidentiality. While proponents argue that the bill is essential for protecting individuals' privacy rights in employment services, opponents might express concerns regarding the potential lack of transparency in accessing information critical for public accountability. Lawmakers will need to consider the implications this bill has on public access to information versus the need for privacy in an increasingly digital landscape.
Identical
Relating to the efficiency of the operations of, and certain information regarding services provided by, the Texas Workforce Commission; providing a criminal penalty.
Relating to the creation of the employer child-care contribution partnership program administered by the Texas Workforce Commission; authorizing a civil penalty.
Relating to measures to prevent and address fraud in the administration of the Texas Unemployment Compensation Act; providing an administrative penalty.